Opinion
3 min read

Predators Set to Clash with Blues in High-Stakes Showdown at Enterprise Center

As the Nashville Predators gear up for their next challenge against the St. Louis Blues, fans are bracing for what promises to be a riveting encounter at the Enterprise Center. The Predators, who have shown both flashes of brilliance and moments of vulnerability this season, will need to bring their A-game if they hope to come out on top in this matchup.


Nov 24, 2023; St. Louis, Missouri, USA;  Nashville Predators goaltender Kevin Lankinen (32) defends the net against St. Louis Blues center Robert Thomas (18) during the second period at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at Nashville's recent performances provides a mixed bag of takeaways. On December 23rd against the Dallas Stars, despite a valiant effort that saw them rack up 32 hits and block an impressive 27 shots, they fell short with a final score of 2-3. The Predators' powerplay unit managed to convert once from three opportunities, showcasing potential that could be pivotal against the Blues.


However, it was during their game on December 22nd where NSH truly shone. Against the Philadelphia Flyers, they emerged victorious with four goals scored and only two conceded. Their penalty kill was particularly noteworthy as they successfully fended off all powerplay attempts by the Flyers while also scoring shorthanded – an aspect that could intimidate any opponent.


Nov 24, 2023; St. Louis, Missouri, USA;  Nashville Predators center Ryan O'Reilly (90) is congratulated by teammates after scoring against the St. Louis Blues during the second period at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

The Predators' resilience was tested once more on December 20th when facing off against the Vancouver Canucks. Despite suffering a loss with a scoreline of 2-5, there were positive signs as NSH managed two even-strength goals and delivered tenacious defense with ten takeaways.


For NSH fans looking ahead to February 17th's game against STL, there is reason for cautious optimism. The team has demonstrated strong defensive capabilities which will be crucial in thwarting STL's offensive efforts. However, improving faceoff win percentages – which have been less than stellar in recent games – will be critical for maintaining puck possession and controlling the game's tempo.


Nov 24, 2023; St. Louis, Missouri, USA;  St. Louis Blues right wing Kevin Hayes (12) controls the puck against the Nashville Predators during the first period at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

The upcoming battle is not just about defense; converting on powerplays could very well tip the scales in favor of NSH if executed correctly. With an away advantage potentially playing into Nashville's hands due to less pressure from home expectations and fanfare at Enterprise Center, it might just provide them with enough edge to secure victory.


As we count down towards puck drop on February 17th at 5:00 PM CT (6:00 PM ET), Predators fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+ nationally or tune into BSSO channel 646-1 for local coverage away from home turf or BSMW channel 671 within St Louis locale for those who prefer television broadcasting over internet streaming services.

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